Quick answer: Virginia has reported 180 measles cases in 2026 as of mid-October, up from just 5 cases in all of 2025, according to the Virginia Department of Health (VDH). Measles starts like a bad cold with a high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash a few days later. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing it. If you think you or your child may have measles, call before you go to any clinic or ER so staff can protect other patients.

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases there is. Here’s what Virginia families need to know this season.

Measles in Virginia: what’s happening in 2026

VDH has tracked a sharp rise in measles this year. A large outbreak in Buckingham County in central Virginia drove much of the early increase, and new cases have since been confirmed in other parts of the state, including the Northwest Region in October. VDH links the rise to travel-related exposures and falling vaccination rates nationwide. For the latest numbers by health district, check the VDH measles dashboard, which is updated twice a week.

Measles symptoms

Symptoms usually start 7 to 14 days after exposure:

  • First 2 to 4 days: High fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes. Some people get tiny white spots inside the mouth.
  • Then, the rash: A red, blotchy rash usually appears 3 to 5 days after symptoms start. It begins on the face and hairline and spreads down the body.

Measles can lead to ear infections, pneumonia, brain swelling and, in rare cases, death. Babies, young children, pregnant people and people with weak immune systems are at the highest risk.

How contagious is measles?

Very. The virus spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or even breathes, and it can stay in the air of a room for up to 2 hours. A person with measles can spread it from 4 days before the rash appears through 4 days after. Up to 9 out of 10 unprotected people near an infected person will catch it.

Are you protected? Check your MMR status

The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella. Two doses are about 97% effective, and one dose is about 93% effective. You’re generally considered protected if you:

  • Have records showing two doses of MMR (or one dose for some adults at lower risk)
  • Were born before 1957
  • Have a blood test (titer) showing immunity, or lab-confirmed past measles

Not sure? Find your shot records through your doctor, your child’s school, or the VDH immunization records page. If you can’t find them, talk to a health care provider about whether to get vaccinated or have your immunity checked. Children usually get their first MMR dose at 12 to 15 months and the second at 4 to 6 years.

What to do if you think you were exposed

  • Check your vaccine status right away.
  • Call your health care provider or local health department. In some cases, an MMR shot within 72 hours of exposure can prevent illness or make it milder.
  • Watch for symptoms for 21 days after the exposure.
  • Questions? Call the VDH call center at 877-829-4682 (Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM).

Think you have measles? Call before you come in

Because measles spreads so easily in waiting rooms, please call ahead before visiting PACS Urgent Care, another clinic, or an ER if you have a fever and rash, or measles symptoms after a known exposure. Our team can tell you where to go and how to arrive safely so others aren’t exposed. Find our phone numbers here. If someone is having trouble breathing, is very drowsy, or has a seizure, call 911.

Frequently asked questions

Can adults get measles?

Yes. Adults who were never vaccinated, or who aren’t sure of their records, can catch measles. Adults often get sicker than children.

Do I need an MMR booster?

Most adults who had two doses as children don’t need a booster. Some people may need an extra dose, such as international travelers or health care workers without proof of immunity. Ask your provider.

Is measles the same as the flu?

No, but early measles can look like the flu or a bad cold. The rash, red watery eyes and a known exposure are clues. Read more about flu symptoms day by day.

Can a baby get the MMR vaccine early?

In outbreak areas or before international travel, babies 6 to 11 months old may get an early dose. Talk to your child’s doctor.

Where can I learn more?

See the Virginia Department of Health measles page and measles information from the CDC.

Get care today at PACS Urgent Care

For other illnesses and injuries, walk in or check in online at our Alexandria urgent care (3481 N Beauregard St, open 7 days, 8 AM to 8 PM) or our Ruther Glen urgent care (17067 Merchants Dr, Monday to Friday 8 AM to 8 PM, Saturday and Sunday 9 AM to 5 PM). If you think you might have measles, please call first.

This article is general information and is not a substitute for advice from your own clinician. Case counts are from the Virginia Department of Health as of October 17, 2026.